From left to right, Jadea Deahl, Gabriel Smith, Kristin Mattia and Kathrin Bizzarro. Not pictured: Christopher Kahl, Jacob Kolterjahn, Alyssa Niemi, Saya Scott and Cameron Witte.

Prince Frederick, MD – The Optimist Club of Calvert-Prince Frederick continued a tradition that goes back 45 years. The local club has celebrated Youth Appreciation Week, a nearly 60-year program established by Optimist International. The purpose of the program is to recognize the area’s outstanding youngsters for their achievements in academics and extra-curricular activities and participation in out-of-school programs within the community.

Last month the Calvert County Commissioners declared Nov. 3 through 10 as “Youth Appreciation Week in Calvert County.”

With the assistance of guidance counselors from Calvert County’s four public high schools, as many as 10 seniors were recognized from each school.

The seniors from Patuxent High School (PHS) this year are:

Kathrin M. Bizzarro, who has excelled in the classroom and on the PHS stage, with a goal of attending college and majoring in theatre.

Jadea A. Deahl, who has received numerous academic honors, played varsity lacrosse and soccer, and plans to eventually enroll in law school.

Christopher A. Kahl, who belongs to several clubs, won a few awards, is an outstanding competitive swimmer and hopes to attend the Merchant Marine Academy.

Jacob N. Kolterjahn, who is an honor student, athlete and intends to go to college, majoring in aerospace engineering.

Kristin M. Mattia, who is an honor student, involved in student government, volunteers at community festivals and plans to major in dietetics.

Alyssa J. Niemi, who is an honor student, Girl Scout Silver Award recipient, PHS athlete and plans to pursue biomedical studies in college.

Saya Scott, who is involved in many student government and academic activities, community projects, intends to be a languages major and serve in the Marines.

Gabriel Smith, who is an honor student, an Eagle Scout, athlete, musician, and plans to attend college, majoring in computer science.

Cameron J. Witte, who is an honor student, varsity football and baseball player, intends to major in nuclear and mechanical engineering, and become a Navy officer.

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com